Vintage Afghan Baluch Small Rug | Hand-Knotted Wool | Herati “Fish” Lattice in Burnt Orange & Chocolate

This authentic tribal rug was hand-knotted by Baluch weavers of western Afghanistan. Its moody palette—burnt orange, tobacco, camel, and charcoal—creates a glowing, ember-like field that reads rich and cozy.

Compact and nearly square, it’s a collector’s size that slips beside a bed, anchors a reading chair, or hangs beautifully as wall art while bringing real village character to the room.

The field is organized by three stacked diamond medallions composed of the Baluch interpretation of the Herati (fish) lattice, flanked by ram’s-horn hooks and star rosettes for protection. Multiple guard stripes and a main border of stepped diamonds frame the composition, all executed in tight, low pile for crisp geometry. Even wear, natural abrash, and sun-kissed oranges suggest a mid-late 20th-century weave lovingly used and well kept.

Features:

Dimensions: 100 × 89 cm (≈ 39.4" × 35.0")

Origin & Group: Baluch weavers, western Afghanistan

Weaving Tradition: Village/tribal small carpet with stacked diamond medallions and Herati lattice

Knot Structure: Asymmetrical (Senneh-type), typical of Baluch work

Knot Density (est.): ~90–110 KPSI (14–17 per sq. cm)

Materials: Hand-spun wool pile; cotton warps with dark brown wool wefts; stable village dyes in rust, orange, camel, and charcoal

Pile Height: Low to low-medium ≈ 3–5 mm; dense and resilient handle

Borders: Stepped-diamond main border with floral/star guard stripes echoing the field symbols

Age: Vintage, c. 1965–1985

Condition: Good vintage—uniform, low even pile with age-softened areas; tidy overcast selvages; ends secured with short original fringes; light abrash and minor age specks consistent with handmade origin

Use & Styling: Ideal for bedside, entry, hearth, reading nook, or gallery wall; pairs with boho, rustic, wabi-sabi, and eclectic interiors

Care Instructions:

Vacuum gently with a brushless upholstery head; avoid beater bars

Rotate every few months for even wear and light exposure

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and extend life

Blot spills immediately; never rub

Spot clean with cool water and a small amount of pH-neutral wool detergent

Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to preserve natural dyes

Professionally clean with a hand-knotted wool specialist when needed

Bring home a soulful piece of Baluch craftsmanship—earthy, graphic, and wonderfully versatile in size—ready to add warmth and history to your space.